Rules, comparisons and data

Can you get into Erasmus Mundus without IELTS?

Sometimes. Exemptions are set by each programme, not by Erasmus Mundus as a whole. Some accept an English-medium degree or a nationality exemption; others, such as Mundus Journalism's Amsterdam and London tracks, grant no exemption at all. The six programme pages we read on 31 October 2026 all handle it differently.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

Exemption rules compared

Each row restates the programme's own admission page; see the linked guides and sources.

ProgrammeWaiver routeLimits
Europubhealth+Citizens of listed English-speaking countries, or a degree fully taught in English there or in MaltaOnline degrees not accepted; may still be asked for proof
Mundus JournalismSome nationals and degree holders for some tracksNo exemption on request for the Amsterdam or City St George's tracks
EDISSSchooling or a degree in English in listed countries, or current study at a partner universityDistance and offshore degrees not accepted
Copernicus Master in Digital EarthAt least four semesters of English-medium post-secondary studyConfirmation from the institution needed
IMBRSeaProof all classes were in English for the degree or at least 1 yearBoard may waive at its discretion
MESPOMFirst language English, or a degree taught only in EnglishWritten request; committee decides

Why one programme can ask for two tests

Joint master's move between countries. MESPOM warns that the University of Manchester may not accept CEU's exemption and that you may need to retake a test before year 2 in the UK (MESPOM). Mundus Journalism says its rules differ by year 2 university because of immigration and visa regulations (Mundus Journalism).

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If you have no exemption

Most programmes accept TOEFL iBT and Cambridge as well as IELTS, and some take PTE or Duolingo. Europubhealth+ accepts Duolingo only for one pathway, and EDISS accepts only TOEFL and IELTS. Plan the test so the result is ready by the application deadline.

Frequently asked questions

Does an English-medium bachelor's always exempt me?+

No. EDISS, for example, accepts it only if completed on site in listed countries, and some tracks allow no exemption.

Can a medium of instruction letter replace IELTS?+

At some programmes. IMBRSea and Copernicus Digital Earth accept proof of English-medium study.

Does Erasmus Mundus accept Duolingo?+

Only some programmes. Europubhealth+ takes it for one pathway and MESPOM lists it, but not for the Manchester track.

Who decides an exemption?+

The programme consortium or committee, as set out on its admission page.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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